Solar Energy International (SEI) training

PV systems with energy storage are a rapidly growing segment of the industry. This course builds a foundation for understanding many battery-based applications, in which the complexity far exceeds that of a grid­-direct PV system. Load analysis is addressed along with other critical design criteria such as battery bank design, equipment options, and electrical integration of system components. Component options are covered in detail, including batteries, charge controllers, and battery­-based inverters. Different battery chemistries, associated pros and cons, and cost comparisons are investigated along with safety and maintenance considerations unique to battery­-based PV systems.

There are many opportunities for different careers in the residential PV industry, including the business and sales side. Addressing topics from the NABCEP PV Technical Sales job task analysis, PVOL206 focuses on important technical considerations for PV sales professionals, including financial analysis and system financing. Through insightful presentations and instruction from experts working in the field, the course covers technical details needed to assess potential residential PV sites and to create and present accurate sales proposals. Concepts discussed in detail include: site safety, customer qualification, solar site analysis, creating conceptual design proposals, performance modeling, system costing, incentives and rebates, financial-benefit analyses, financing options, and the non-financial benefits of photovoltaic systems.

This 40-hour course consists of 5-days of classroom lecture with tours and hands-on labs. Lectures are presented in powerpoint format with exercises, quizzes, group discussion, and homework. Tours and lab provide an opportunity for students to see systems and apply the theory they learn in lectures.

With female-only instructors and participants, this hands-on course offers women a uniquely supportive learning environment to build their solar knowledge foundation. This course offers the same curriculum as SEI’s co-ed PV201L, but is intended to further encourage participants to get ALL those solar questions answered and offer networking opportunities with each other and existing women in the solar industry.